Methylprednisolone Side Effects

Methylprednisolone side effects, like those of most other medications, are something you need to be aware of. Your doctor usually goes over everything with you before prescribing any medication. He will determine, hopefully along with you, whether the benefits outweigh the risks.

We've learned that methylprednisolone is sold under the brand names Solu-Medrol and Medrol. It is a synthetic glucocorticoid or steroid drug. Doctors prescribe it for their MS patients as an anti-inflammatory. It prevents substances that cause inflammation from being released into the body.

If you haven't already done so, click here to read the list of things you need to let your doctor know before taking methylprednisolone. There is an equally long list to tell your doctor about after you begin taking it. The following are methylprednisolone side effects.

Stomach upset

headache

dizziness

menstrual period changes

trouble sleeping

weight gain

Let your doctor know if any of these side effects won't go away or get worse. Hopefully you will be one of the ones that is not bothered by any of the side effects.

Rare, but serious

There are some rare, but very serious side effects that may happen, also. Call your doctor right away if you experience any of the following.

bone/joint pain

easy bruising/bleeding

black stools

vomit that looks like coffee grounds

severe stomach/abdominal pain

increased thirst/urination

fast/pounding/irregular heartbeat

shortness of breath

swelling of the ankles/feet

persistent weight gain

puffy face

unusual hair growth

thinning skin

slow wound healing

signs of infection (persistent fever/cough/sore throat, painful urination, eye pain/discharge)

muscle weakness/pain

mental/mood changes (mood swings, depression, agitation)

vision changes

seizures

unusual skin growths

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is pretty rare, but you will need to get immediate medical attention if it does happen. How do you know if it's happening? Here are the symptoms – they may include:

rash
itching
swelling

severe dizziness

trouble breathing

You may notice other methylprednisolone side effects not on this list. By all means let your doctor know anything that you feel is a result of taking this drug. Methylprednisolone side effects are very rare, but they can happen. Be aware of how you feel. Know your body.